Jessie Diggins Finishes 12th After Crash in Final World Cup Race

The four-time Olympic medalist retires as the most decorated cross-country skier in U.S. history.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 11:58pm

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Jessie Diggins, the 34-year-old American cross-country ski racer, finished 12th in the final World Cup race of her storied career after a late crash knocked her out of medal contention. Diggins, who won 33 World Cup races and two world championships, leaves the sport as the most decorated cross-country skier in U.S. history.

Why it matters

Diggins' retirement marks the end of an era for American cross-country skiing. As one of the sport's most successful and popular athletes, her departure will leave a significant void that the next generation of U.S. skiers will need to fill.

The details

Diggins was in the medal mix before a late crash on the downhill portion of the course knocked her to the snow. She got back up and finished 12th. Despite the disappointing end, Diggins' career was marked by numerous accomplishments, including four Olympic medals, four overall World Cup titles, and 33 individual World Cup victories.

  • Diggins finished her final World Cup race on March 22, 2026.
  • She won her fourth overall World Cup title earlier that same weekend.

The players

Jessie Diggins

A 34-year-old American cross-country skier who is the most decorated cross-country skier in U.S. history, with four Olympic medals, two world championships, and 33 World Cup victories.

Jonna Sundling

A Swedish cross-country skier who won the final World Cup race of Diggins' career.

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What they’re saying

“I'm really going to miss this. But I'm really, really thankful that I got to do this and that I got to be part of such an incredible team for so many years.”

— Jessie Diggins

What’s next

Diggins plans to continue her advocacy work for climate change awareness and supporting people coping with eating disorders after retiring from competitive skiing.

The takeaway

Jessie Diggins' retirement marks the end of an era for American cross-country skiing. As the most decorated skier in U.S. history, her accomplishments and impact on the sport will be felt for years to come, and she leaves big shoes for the next generation of American skiers to fill.